ECOWAS

Definition

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) is a regional political and economic union established in 1975 to promote economic integration, political stability, and cooperation among its member countries in West Africa. ECOWAS aims to foster economic development and regional stability while addressing challenges such as political instability, military coups, and the need for greater regional integration.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ECOWAS was founded on May 28, 1975, with the signing of the Treaty of Lagos, initially focusing on economic integration but later expanding to include political and security cooperation.
2. The organization consists of 15 member states, including Nigeria, Ghana, and Senegal, making it one of the largest regional organizations in Africa.
3. ECOWAS has a protocol for mutual defense and has intervened in member states experiencing military coups or conflicts to restore order and constitutional governance.
4. The ECOWAS Parliament was established to provide a platform for dialogue and representation of civil society, aiming to enhance democratic governance in the region.
5. One of ECOWAS's significant achievements includes the establishment of a common currency, the Eco, aimed at facilitating trade and economic collaboration among member states.

Review Questions

• How does ECOWAS address the issues of political instability and military coups within its member states?
  • ECOWAS addresses political instability and military coups through its protocol for mutual defense and intervention. The organization has intervened militarily in countries like Liberia and Sierra Leone to restore constitutional order following coups or civil unrest. By promoting peacekeeping missions and establishing frameworks for democratic governance, ECOWAS seeks to ensure stability within its member states.
• Evaluate the role of ECOWAS in promoting regional integration among West African countries.
  • ECOWAS plays a crucial role in promoting regional integration by facilitating trade agreements, fostering economic collaboration, and creating a common market among its member states. Through initiatives like the ECOWAS Trade Liberalization Scheme (ETLS), the organization encourages the free movement of goods and services across borders. This integration enhances economic growth and strengthens political ties between countries in West Africa.
• Discuss the impact of ECOWAS on governance in West Africa, particularly regarding democratic practices and human rights.
  • ECOWAS has significantly influenced governance in West Africa by advocating for democratic practices and human rights through various protocols and initiatives. The establishment of the ECOWAS Parliament provides a platform for civil society engagement and enhances accountability among governments. Furthermore, ECOWAS has established frameworks to promote electoral integrity and uphold human rights standards, contributing to improved governance across member states.

Related terms

African Union:

A continental union consisting of 55 African countries, the African Union aims to promote unity, peace, and development across the continent.

Regional Integration:

The process by which neighboring countries in a region increase their level of cooperation through economic, political, or social means.

Military Coup: An illegal seizure of power by a military group, often resulting in the overthrow of the existing government.